Feasibility of implementing managed aquifer recharge schemes for agricultural purposes
Project details
| Objective: |
To investigate the advantages, disadvantages, economic feasibility, suitability of regulatory frameworks and the barriers to implementing MAR schemes for agricultural purposes. |
| Funding: |
$100 000 plus applicable GST |
| Jurisdiction: |
National |
| Commenced: |
September 2008 |
| Completed: | January 2011 |
About the project
Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) is a priority theme under the National Water Commission's National Groundwater Action Plan. MAR has the potential to reduce demand on urban water supply systems as well as provide protection for some threatened groundwater resources. The National Water Commission has recognised that the majority of MAR applications have occurred in urban settings and that there is need to conduct preliminary analysis of the potential of MAR for agriculture.
This project has investigated the advantages, disadvantages, economic feasibility, suitability of regulatory frameworks and the barriers to implementing MAR schemes for agricultural purposes. The Waterlines report found that MAR is unlikely to provide a significant new source of water for new agricultural development. Rather it is more likely to be successful as a tool for improving on current or proposed practices.
Project benefits
The project Waterlines report will assist managers to:
- determine the economics of establishing and operating MAR schemes for agricultural purposes
- identify advantages/disadvantages of MAR for agricultural purposes
- identify institutional barriers to such schemes and other impediments to their development
- undertake a feasibility assessment of MAR schemes for irrigation in low flow periods through stormwater capture and storage
- identify potential water source(s) for MAR
- assess impacts on downstream users, including the environment
- provide a framework for determining sustainable capture of the stormwater when considering downstream users.